Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is considered to be a genetic disorder that affects the connective tissues in the body. About 200,000 new cases of EDS emerge every year, and to date, there is no known cure. According to the Medical Cannabis Network of Europe, EDS was recently listed as one of the conditions that could qualify patients to receive medical cannabis. The inclusion of the condition stems from research indicating that a specific cannabinoid, CBD (cannabidiol), may help with chronic pain that is prevalently associated with EDS.

An Overview of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

As noted, EDS is referred to as a connective tissue disorder. However, when you take a look at the many issues that can be associated with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, the condition becomes much more complex. The connective tissues throughout the body perform so many important roles, including keeping joints stabilized when we move, allowing the body to heal properly after injury, and more. Some of the symptoms associated with EDS include:

• Debilitating pain
• Defects with collagen production
• Hypermobility (broad range of motion with joints)
• Fatigue
• Fragile skin
• Early-onset of arthritis of the joints
• Easy bruising and easily broken skin
• Headaches and migraines

People with EDS can be hyper-prone to injuries because of the way their joints and skin can move. In addition, the intense pain that can come along with the condition can be enough to bring about psychological concerns with anxiety and depression.

Individuals who have the vascular form of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can also have dangerous issues with their blood vessels. These issues can lead to risks of internal tissue damage that can cause internal bleeding and risks for certain organs.

The Attributes of CBD That Could Help with EDS

CBD has been looked at as a potential therapeutic cannabis agent to help with an array of different ailments, both psychological and physical. The reason cannabidiol is growing as an acceptable way to help with so many issues is because the effects of the cannabinoid can be so diverse. From offering anxiolytic properties to helping with hard-to-treat pain, the many attributes of CBD also make it a fitting option for people who have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Here is a look at just a few of the most noteworthy attributes of CBD and why those specific features may benefit those with EDS.

Pain Relieving Qualities

The most noteworthy attribute of CBD that could be important for EDS sufferers is the cannabinoid’s ability to yield pain relief. A number of studies have examined the pain-reducing qualities of CBD for a range of conditions. Interestingly, CBD seems to be an effective way to relieve certain types of hard-to-treat pain, such as neuropathic pain or pain related to conditions like multiple sclerosis.

The pain-relieving qualities of CBD seem to be heightened when paired with other cannabinoids like THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). In a study of 15 patients, 12 saw improvement in their chronic pain by smoking therapeutic types of cannabis. CBD seems to help with pain on a few different levels. One, the cannabinoid soothes the inflammatory response, and inflammation is the root of many types of pain as well as a key issue for those with EDS. Second, CBD may benefit through how the pain is actually perceived.

Sleep Supporting Properties

EDS is well-known among sufferers to interfere with falling asleep and sleep quality. Naturally, when your body is uncomfortable due to pain, good sleep can be hard to come by. The sad truth is, when you don’t sleep well, it can also exacerbate issues with pain. Thus, poor sleep due to pain related to EDS can kick off a never-ending cycle of bad days filled with fatigue.

CBD‘s naturally calming properties may help to offer some sleep support. The American Sleep Association says that CBD may actually interact with certain receptors within the endocannabinoid system that are directly responsible for maintaining a good sleep/wake cycle. Whatever the mechanisms may be, CBD definitely shows promise for EDS sufferers and may prove to be a worthy alternative to opioid pain relievers that come with their own worrisome side effects.

Anxiety Relieving Qualities

When you have a chronic medical condition, anxiety levels can be especially high, especially if that condition has you dealing with a lot of pain and discomfort. CBD has anxiolytic properties, so the cannabinoid has been examined as a potential way to treat anxiety in a number of studies. In one particular study, a dose of 300 to 600mg of CBD significantly lowered anxiety levels among 57 study participants.

Help for High Blood Pressure

The stress that comes along with EDS is known for heightening the blood pressure of some individuals. Many people with EDS look to blood pressure medications to help. However, CBD may also help with keeping the blood pressure levels at a more stable state. Some studies have suggested that CBD can lower the resting blood pressure rate and blood pressure hikes related to stress response.

CBD for EDS – A Potential Natural Remedy for Symptom Relief

Even though we are just starting to learn all the ways in which CBD could be beneficial for EDS, the future is looking bright. If you have a great deal of chronic pain, fatigue, trouble sleeping, and anxiety related to Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, finding a high-CBD cannabis strain or quality CBD product to try may be worth your efforts. Take a look at our current menu at Core Gardens to find quality cannabis products.